Woolies digs deep for drought relief

PUTTING ‘retail therapy’ into new context, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is urging Australians to get behind Woolworths’ National Drought Action Day on Tuesday 23 January 2007, as the retail giant pledges to donate all of the day’s profits to drought relief and research.

Expected to raise over $3 million through sales at all Woolworths and Safeway supermarkets, the gesture by one of Australia’s largest retailers has been warmly welcomed by the NFF.

“People can now help farmers just by buying their groceries at Woolies for a day,” NFF CEO Ben Fargher said. “If you’re going to do the household grocery shopping anyway, what better than being able to lend a hand to Australia’s drought-stricken farmers in the process.”

“This gesture is very much appreciated by Australian farmers – not just because of the money likely to be raised on Tuesday, but because it demonstrates the rest of the country recognises the contribution agriculture makes to the country.

“It is tangible recognition from Woolworths – one of the country’s biggest grocery retailers – that their suppliers, Australia’s farmers, are feeling the pinch. It also affords ordinary Australians the opportunity to do their bit in the normal course of doing their shopping.

“The funding to be delivered to the Country Women’s Association Emergency Drought Relief Program and research into sustainable farming practices can make a valuable contribution to helping farm families get through the drought, while also assisting in generating greater research into things like climate change.

“The Woolworths’ National Drought Action Day is a shining example of corporate Australia getting behind farming communities in the grip of the worst drought on record. Like the rain that fell over much of the NT, SA and Victoria this weekend, this initiative is giving renewed hope to Australian farmers.”